House Fly

Scientific Name: Musca domestica

Order & Family: Diptera, Muscidae

Size: 6 to 7 mm (0.24 to 0.28 inches) in length

House Fly

Natural Habitat

Found worldwide in close proximity to human settlements, farms, and decaying organic matter.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on liquids including sugary substances, decaying food, and animal waste. They liquefy solids with enzymes in their saliva.

Behavior Patterns

Highly active during the day; they possess rapid flight reflexes (moving upon detecting slight changes in air pressure). Life cycle involves four stages: egg, larva (maggot), pupa, and adult, often completing in just 7-10 days in warm weather.

Risks & Benefits

Significant health risk as they are vectors for pathogens causing diseases like typhoid, cholera, and salmonellosis. They benefit ecosystems by aiding in the decomposition of organic material.

Identified on: 5/18/2026